102859_01_evospeed_1.2_l_fg_left_zmAlthough I will begin and end with the same thought that either of these boots would be a phenomenal choice for the upcoming season, I have spent enough time in both types of the EvoSpeed to try and help you make a choice between the two materials available in the 1.2.  Despite having extremely different uppers, both boots have a lightweight feel and an impressive conical stud pattern.  Both are made with quality and the durability will definitely get you through a few seasons, with the EvoSpeed really setting the bar for speed boots on the market.

102859_01_evospeed_1.2_l_fg_bottom_zm copyBoth boots have a DuoFlex stud pattern that has great flexibility with an external heel counter that can be found on the 1.2.  The boot has been a massive upgrade over Puma’s V1 series of speed boots and I personally feel that the EvoSpeed has even overtaken the F50 series in terms of quality and my desire to use them on the pitch.  Considering that their starting price is also nearly fifty dollars cheaper than the adidas speed boots and the Nike speed boots, these deserve a definite look for the season ahead.

The synthetic version is a little bit longer of a break-in than its leather counterpart.  The synthetic upper provides the barefoot feel that most speed boots are striving for and makes sure that the weight on the boot stays low.  The listed weight for the EvoSpeed synthetic is in the low 6 oz range while the leather version sits a little closer to 7 oz.  Although it is tough to tell a big difference once the two boots are on your feet, there is a not a bit of difference after you play a full 90 minutes and you are trying to make that last second burst.

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The synthetic version does have a better look simply because the large “PUMA” graphic looks better on the synthetic than the stitched in version on the leather Evo.  The leather version actually looks like a somewhat lower tier model because of how most of the stuff is stitched on the boot.  Besides that, the boots are completely identical in terms of graphics and styling.  The current available colorways are great looking in your hands and also if you want to be seen from the sidelines.

The comfort level for both boots is impressive for a speed boot, but Puma have put, arguably, the best insole possible in these boots.  I have actually removed the insole and placed it into other boots in order to increase the comfort level in other boots.  The amount of padding is impressive for a speed boot and it shows that Puma are alright with adding a little bit of weight in order to have a quality release.  The comfort is also aided by the fact that Puma have slightly changed the cut of the toe area of the boot.  If you look at your toes, you will see how your foot curves up from your pinky toe and comes to a point at your big toe/index toe.  While most speed boots come to a point closer to your middle toe, Puma have changed the cut ever so slightly so that it will fit even better once it is broken in.

Personally, the leather version is one of my favorite boots of 2013.  The feel is a perfect blend of quality leather and that lightweight feel that makes you feel light on your feet and provides a great touch.  As someone that prefers boots with no frills and something that allows my touch to be as pure as possible, it is great.

If you have the opportunity to snag either of these boots, then you should leap at the chance.  Puma is really been impressing with all of their recent releases and I think that the EvoSpeed would definitely supplant the F50 if more people were willing to give them a chance.  Go snag a pair over from our friends at SoccerPro.com and start dominating in style!PUMA EVOSPEED

4 / 5 stars     
 

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